weekender the inner city FRI 11 APR 2014 • Issue 182
Printed on 100% recycled paper
Back to the stage
PROUDLY INDEPENDENT
School Holidays Looking for something to do with the kids? p.18-20
Carrying the burden Marrickville Mayor says lack of funding for libraries is unsustainable CHRIS CONNOLLY
McKenney sings Peter Allen p.24
Student light rail pass needed p.3
Man glassed at pub More local police news and events inside p.6
@connolly2204
M
arrickville Council is joining with two library associations, Public Libraries NSW and NSW Metropolitan Public Library Association, in calling on the NSW Government to undertake a comprehensive review of public library funding, as promised during the last NSW election. Marrickville Mayor Jo Haylen said the NSW Library Act of 1939 called for equal funding from state and local governments to provide library services but ever since then, it’s been local government carrying the funding burden for public libraries. “Marrickville Council spends more per resident on community services than any other Sydney council, while at the same time, we’re in the lower percentile bracket for residential rates,” Mayor Haylen said. “We’re hugely proud of that, but it’s not sustainable for ever. During the last NSW election, the current government promised to review the funding model of our libraries, but three years later, we are still waiting with bated breath. “Our libraries provide so many resources for our community – meeting rooms, electronic resources, activities for kids, information services, learning support – the list goes on and on.” Mayor Haylen said Marrickville Council was writing to NSW Minister for the Arts George Souris, calling for reform of the funding system for public libraries and was urging all residents to sign a petition at one of its libraries.
Mayor Haylen at Marrickville Library’s Baby Rhyme Time
LITTLE ITALY LANDS IN MARRICKVILLE
Paesanella Cheese have just opened an exciting new retail outlet in the heart of the inner west. The new deli offers a wide selection of the finest Australian and continental produce. Specialising in cold meats, cheeses, breads, oils, spices, sauces, pasta, organic vegetables, fruits and an assortment of other delicacies from around the world. In addition the store offers cooked meals and catering for your event. 150-152 Marrickvile Road, Marrickville. Ph (02) 9519 6181. Monday-Saturday: 8am-5pm. Sunday: 7am-2pm www.facebook.com/paesanella WW8131